Modelling systems by hypergraphs

Abstract

Purpose

To present the hypergraph as a systems model that is more versatile than are the single‐purpose models known from literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Parting from a previously known approach, pertinent hypergraph structures are specified, three new propositions are proved and the role of system elements and relations is analyzed.

Findings

Unlike a simple graph and a simple logical analysis, hypergraphs make it possible to apply a single theoretical approach to modelling a variety of systems. A worked‐out example illustrates the procedure.

Originality/value

Hypergraphs as a research tool appear sparsely in scientific literature. This paper fills the gap by presenting the hypergraph‐based systems model as being more versatile than are the models known from literature. It also highlights the effect of system elements and relations on the make‐up of the system in point.

Citation

Gazdík, I. (2006), "Modelling systems by hypergraphs", Kybernetes, Vol. 35 No. 9, pp. 1369-1381. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920610662665